ACCESSIBLE BOOKS: A RIGHT OF PEOPLE WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENT THAT REQUIRES THE EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE MARRAKECH TREATY

Abstract

The Marrakesh Treaty, in force in Brazil since 2018, makes copyright more flexible to expand access to written works for people with visual impairments. This article analyzes its advances and challenges in the production and provision of accessible materials, which are essential for inclusion. The aim is to identify the proposed innovations, the actions of Authorized Entities, and the changes that have occurred since 2018, in addition to pointing out necessary improvements. The research adopts the method of documentary analysis, examining data from official bodies and Authorized Entities, as well as information from the dissertation "Production and Availability of Talking Books for Visually Impaired Individuals: effects arising from the gaps in the Marrakesh Treaty and its conflicts with the Copyright Law". The approach adopted is dialectical, allowing the contrast and interrelation between the regulations of the Marrakesh Treaty, the Copyright Law and the practical reality of the production and provision of accessible materials. The results indicate that lack of knowledge about the Treaty negatively impacts its application, resulting in few Authorized Entities and the underuse of its mechanisms. In addition, it was found that the production of accessible materials changed little after its entry into force, remaining aligned with the Copyright Law. Finally, challenges such as proving the eligibility of beneficiaries and ensuring the safety of the distribution of accessible works stand out. The study points out that, despite the Treaty's potential, its practical impact is still limited, requiring greater dissemination of information and measures to make inclusion effective.